The beauty and diversity of research is being celebrated this week at Swansea University as the winners of the Research as Art competition, judged by a panel of eminent experts, were announced in a ceremony at the University.

The competition attracted over 100 images from all over the University that are inspired by research or inspire research. A high-profile judging panel was assembled for the competition, with a broad range of expertise.

The winner was Hollie Rosier, from the College of Engineering. Her image, called Sal Cristallum, shows an amazing close-up of a grain of salt, which formed on the components of an aircraft engine, during her research into making engines safer.

Dr Richard Johnston is a lecturer in the college of engineering at Swansea University, organises the competition. He said:

"The competition is the only one of its kind, open to ALL researchers, with an emphasis on the research story, in addition to the striking image.

Images and stimulating abstracts are a great way of showing the public the wonder of research that goes on in our University. It’s an opportunity for researchers to engage, inform, and inspire people. Researchers have a responsibility to make their research accessible…and the thirst from the public is certainly there!"